Dear Ones,

Back in Milwaukee our UU colleagues group met every month. With nine congregations, some having more than one minister, and several community ministers, we had a relatively large group. One colleague I remember particularly was a community minister, working for the UUA (at the time) and with a private therapy practice. What I most remember about her is what she’d say when greeted and asked “How are you today?”

Her answer was always the same. “I’m grateful,” she’d say, “I’m grateful.”

I’m grateful. Two simple words, and yet for some these are the key to resetting our perspective in these difficult, liminal space times. At different times in my life I’ve kept a gratitude journal, in which I’d list 3 to 5 things I was grateful for each day. Sometimes I had to stretch, others I was grateful for many, many things.

I’m not keeping a gratitude journal at the moment, though I think sometimes that the photos and videos I take on our walks in and around Beaufort are a way of expressing my gratitude. I also know that for some of us, feeling grateful is challenging right now. If that’s true for you, I invite you to try the practice.

Sometime near the end of your day, just write down 3 things you’re grateful for. You could also create a document on your computer, and just add entries each day, if that’s easier.

Here are a few of the things I’m grateful for, lately:

• The walking trail I have access to, and the not-too-distant Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge
• The beauty of the flowers I’ve observed blooming, each in their turn, each taking their own place in the sun
• The antics of the birds I’ve seen, both in my own backyard and on different walks, including the joy of seeing fairly young Canada goslings

Most of all, I’m grateful for you! Thank you for being here, for being part of this Fellowship, and for staying connected! I love you. You are beloved and precious. We will get through this. Stay safe, everyone.

Gratefully,
Rev. Lori Hlaban